Gum Disease Treatment
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection and inflammation of the gums and tissues that support your teeth. When plaque builds up and is not brushed away, it hardens into tartar. When tartar is not cleaned off professionally, gum disease develops and it can lead to gum recession, tooth loss, and can lead to even more serious health issues like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections if the bacteria and inflammatory substances leak into the blood stream.
Effective gum disease treatment helps restore gum health and reduces the risk of these health complications and tooth loss. Depending on the severity, gum treatment can range from simple cleaning to more advanced gum procedures.
Types of Gum Disease Treatment
Gum disease is generally categorized into two stages: gingivitis (early stage) and periodontitis (advanced stage). Treatment varies based on the severity of the condition.
- Early stage (gingivitis)
Treatment often includes professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar. Improved oral hygiene at home, such as regular brushing and flossing, is paramount to treating gingivitis.
- Advanced stages (periodontitis)
Treatment may involve:
- Scaling and Root Planing:A deep cleaning procedure that removes tartar and bacteria underneath the gum line and in the gum pockets. At An Dental in Singapore, we use advanced technology like the EMS AIRFLOW, a machine that uses air, water, and fine powder to clean teeth with minimal sensitivity.
- Antibiotics: To help fight gum infection and kill bacteria that lies in the gum and bone surrounding the teeth.
- Severe Gum Disease (Advanced Periodontitis)
If the disease has progressed significantly, surgical intervention may be required:
- Pocket Reduction Surgery: A procedure where gum tissue is folded back and replaced to allow more effective cleaning of the tooth roots.
- Regenerative Surgery: Bone and tissue grafts are placed around the tooth and restores the gums and bone structure, helping to rebuild the foundation of your teeth.
Benefits of Gum Disease Treatment
Treating gum disease can offer numerous benefits:
Prevents tooth loss
Stops gum disease spreading, destroying bone and gums around teeth which may cause your teeth to loosen and fall out.
Reduces gum inflammation
Reduced bleeding and swelling in your gums.
Improves long-term oral health
Reduces the amount of bacteria surrounding the teeth and reduces the amount of inflammation in the mouth.
Improves bad breath
Gets rid of sulphur producing bacteria that contributes to bad breath.
Reduces the risk of systemic issues
Gum disease is associated with numerous systemic issues like Alzheimers, Diabetes, Dementia, and heart issues. Gum treatment reduces these risks by reducing the bacteria load and inflammation.
Improves appearance
Healthier gums lead to a more attractive smile.
When should you seek Gum Disease Treatment?
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to schedule a consultation:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth or a changing bite. Your teeth seem to have drifted and changed position
- Abscess or pus in your gums
A thorough consultation, including dental X-rays, will help determine the best treatment for you.
What results can I expect after Gum Disease Treatment?
After treatment, you’ll likely notice:
- Healthier, firmer gums (less bleeding or swelling)
- Firmer teeth
- Fresher breath once the bacteria is cleaned away,
- Reduced pockets between teeth and gums, thus trapping less bacteria and food debris
- Improved overall oral health, which may also lower your risk for heart disease and diabetes
Regenerative surgery increases bone and gum growth, leading to a stronger foundation for your teeth.
How Many Sessions Are Needed?
The number of treatment sessions depends on the severity of your gum disease:
Gingivitis
Usually 1-2 cleaning sessions, followed by regular checkups every 6 months.
Periodontitis
Deep cleaning may require 1-2 sessions, with follow-up visits every 3-6 months.
Advanced Periodontitis
Surgical procedures may require multiple sessions with intervention, followed by maintenance visits every 3-6 months.
Your Dental Questions Answered
There is no best treatment, but rather one that would be best for your specific condition. Mild cases of gum disease can typically be managed by practicing good oral hygiene, while more severe gum disease may require surgical intervention. This is why routine dental check-ups are important — allowing your dentist to monitor your gum health, in turn, mitigating any signs of potential gum disease before the condition worsens.
The cost of treating gum disease in Singapore can vary significantly based on factors such as the severity of the condition, the specific treatment required, and the pricing structure of the dental clinic. It also helps to check with your insurance provider if your gum disease treatment is covered or eligible for claim.
Less invasive forms of gum disease treatment are generally well-tolerated. Sometimes, an anaesthetic can be administered to ensure that you’re kept comfortable throughout the procedure. It is, however, important to note that the extent of your inflammation and infection can also influence pain levels, especially after complex procedures, which could potentially lead to some post-surgical discomfort. Thankfully, this will subside in time as you heal.
Gum disease can often be effectively treated and managed, but whether it can be "cured" depends on the severity of the condition. Book a consultation at An Dental for a comprehensive oral analysis and personalised treatment plan.
Meet Our Doctors
Dr. Hu Cidong
Periodontist - Special interest in digital dental implants and root recession coverage
Dr. Hu Cidong graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery from the National University of Singapore (NUS) and subsequently completed his Master's in Dental Surgery (Periodontology) at NUS.
Dr. Ivan Prabowo
Orthodontist - Special Interest In Invisalign And Growth Modulation
Dr Ivan Prabowo graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree from NUS in 2008. He honed his skills in government polyclinics and hospitals before embarking on his orthodontics residency, supported by the Alexandra Health scholarship.
Dr. Kayla Toh
General Dentist - Creative Smile Design and Aesthetics
Dr Kayla Toh graduated with the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (B.D.S.) from the National University of Singapore. She was awarded the IFDEA Medal for being the best student in Paediatric Dentistry. She is also the recipient of the 1st runner up-prize for the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Programme.
Dr. Yuan Jun Hui
General Dentist - Your All-in-one Family Dentist
Dr. Yuan graduated from NUS with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery. She has amassed a wealth of experience working in government institutions such as polyclinics, the National Dental Centre, the Institute of Mental Health, and Tan Tock Seng Hospital, as well as nearly 10 years of experience in the private sector.
Dr. Carla Andreina
Orthodontic Resident - Special Interest In Invisalign And Aesthetic Dentistry
Dr Carla Andreina graduated from the University of Glasgow (UK) with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree and was awarded the Head of College Scholars’ List for her achievements. She went on to pursue her passion in teeth straightening and is undergoing her Masters degree in Orthodontics in the National University of Singapore (NUS), while also honing her skills in clear aligner techniques through mini residency structured programmes.
Dr. Sulin Quak
Paediatric Specialist - Tooth Fairy To Your Child; With Special Interest In Nitrous Sedation And Early Orthodontics
Dr Sulin Quak graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree from NUS and was awarded the IFDEA Prize as the best student in Paediatric Dentistry upon graduation. With a keen interest in children's dentistry, Dr Quak further pursued a full-time Masters degree in paediatric dentistry, where upon completion, she emerged top in her cohort and was awarded the Medal and Prize for Best Student in the final Masters of Dental Surgery examination.
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Book an Appointment Now
If you think you may have gum disease or haven’t had a dental checkup in a while, don’t wait—schedule your appointment today at Le By An Dental!
